Cell-Penetrating, Guanidinium-Rich Oligomers for Drug and Probe Delivery

Stanford researchers have synthesized a highly effective molecule to transport drug conjugates across cell membranes. The molecular transporter can deliver either imaging probes or drugs as active conjugates or release the active agents upon uptake into targeted cells and tissues (e.g. cancer cells, stem cells, tumors, or infections). Delivery is effective in human cells and tissues, as well as other organisms including bacteria, algae, and plant cells. This molecular transporter is an oligomer with a phosphotriester backbone and functionalized side chains. The molecule can be tuned for a variety of therapeutic delivery and imaging applications.

Comparison of select oligomeric scaffolds for drug delivery. The highly effective Oligophosphoesters are shown in purple.